Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most successful video games, if not the most successful, of all time. And every new Games as a Service title like Fortnite can learn a lot from it. When GTA 5 came out in fall 2013, everyone correctly assumed that it would be immensely popular. What few people could have predicted was its longevity, with millions of people still buying and playing it years after its release.
The game was definitely ahead of the curve in the video game industry business model surrounding games that offer continuous content. Games developed with this model aim to draw players in for the long haul by offering an experience that expands over time with new DLC, new cosmetics, new play modes and more, all while offering players ways to spend money for additional content.
A growing number of Games as a Service (GaaS) titles—such as Anthem, The Division 2 and Apex Legends—are being rolled out in an attempt to lure players away from established behemoths like Fortnite and Destiny. They can all take a page from the continuing lessons offered by GTA 5 on what makes a good game stick.